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## Step-by-Step Instructions
### 1. Prepare the Ingredients
– **Brown the Ground Beef:** In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
– **Sauté the Aromatics:** Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent.
### 2. Assemble the Crockpot Mixture
– **Combine Ingredients:** Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add the pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sliced pepperoni, sliced olives, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
– **Stir Together:** Mix all the ingredients until well combined.
### 3. Slow Cook
– **Set the Crockpot:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on **low** for 2–3 hours, or on **high** for 1–1.5 hours. The mixture is ready when the cheese is melted, and the flavors have melded together.
### 4. Prepare the Buns
– **Toast the Buns:** While the pizza burger mixture is cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns. This step adds texture and helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy when topped with the filling.
### 5. Assemble the Pizza Burgers
– **Spoon the Mixture:** Once the pizza burger mixture is ready, spoon a generous amount onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
– **Add Toppings:** If desired, sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and place the other half of the bun on top to form a sandwich.
### 6. Serve
– **Garnish:** Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
– **Enjoy:** Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the savory, cheesy goodness of your Crockpot Pizza Burgers.
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## Tips for Success
– **Use Lean Meat:** Opting for lean ground beef or ground turkey can reduce the fat content of the dish without sacrificing flavor.
– **Customize Toppings:** Feel free to add or omit toppings based on your preferences. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions can add extra flavor and texture.
– **Avoid Overcooking:** While slow cooking enhances flavors, overcooking can lead to a dry mixture. Keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure optimal results.
– **Serve with Sides:** Pairing the pizza burgers with a side salad or steamed vegetables can help balance the meal and add nutritional value.
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## Variations to Try
– **Vegetarian Version:** Substitute the ground meat with a plant-based protein or additional vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly option.
– **Spicy Kick:** Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for an extra layer of heat.
– **Cheese Lovers:** Incorporate a blend of cheeses, such as provolone, cheddar, or gouda, for a more complex flavor profile.
– **Gluten-Free Option:** Serve the pizza burger mixture over gluten-free buns or in lettuce wraps for a gluten-free alternative.
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## Serving Suggestions
**Pairings:** These hearty sandwiches pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with:
– **Crispy French Fries:** A
